Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "(The following are) two words (sentences or utterances) that are very easy for the tongue to say, and very heavy in the balance (of reward), and most beloved to the Gracious Almighty (And they are): Subhan Allahi wa bi-hamdihi; Subhan Allahi-l-'Adhim,"
Hadith Text
Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "(The following are) two words (sentences or utterances) that are very easy for the tongue to say, and very heavy in the balance (of reward), and most beloved to the Gracious Almighty (And they are): Subhan Allahi wa bi-hamdihi; Subhan Allahi-l-'Adhim,"
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6682 | Book: Oaths and Vows
Translation & Meaning
"Subhan Allahi wa bi-hamdihi" means "Glory be to Allah and all praise is due to Him."
"Subhan Allahi-l-'Adhim" means "Glory be to Allah, the Magnificent."
Scholarly Commentary
These two phrases combine tasbih (declaring Allah's perfection) with either hamd (praise) or emphasizing His magnificent attributes. Scholars explain that their weightiness in the scale comes from combining multiple forms of dhikr in concise statements.
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes in Fath al-Bari that the first phrase combines negation of imperfections (tanzih) with affirmation of perfection (ithbat), while the second emphasizes Allah's supreme greatness beyond all comprehension.
The ease of utterance with immense reward demonstrates Allah's mercy in providing accessible means for earning great spiritual rewards, encouraging constant remembrance throughout daily activities.
Virtues & Benefits
These phrases erase sins, elevate ranks in Paradise, and are among the most beloved statements to Allah according to the explicit text of the hadith.
Scholars recommend their frequent repetition during morning and evening remembrances, after prayers, and throughout the day as they require no specific state of purity or particular time.
The combination of tasbih and hamd in the first phrase represents comprehensive worship, acknowledging both Allah's transcendence and His deservingness of all praise.